Patterson Cemetery District
Obits listing for 1929
Submitted by Gale Stroud and Burta Herger 26 Aug 2007
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Atterbury WB 291011 p1
W.B. Atterbury Passes Away; W. B. Atterbury, well-known Crows Landing rancher, passed away Thursday of last week
following a lingering illness of many months duration. Private funeral services were held at Berkeley Saturday. The
widow, Mrs. Emily R. Atterbury, and. four sisters - Mrs. Jessie Watson; Miss Lydia Atterbury, Mrs. Helen Watson and
Mrs. Ruth Bailey survive the deceased. Atterbury was a Colony property owner and well-known here and was highly
esteemed by all who knew him.
Avila George 290719 p1
Crash Kills One; Four Injured; George Avila Dead; Family All Hurt in Pacheco Pass Tragedy; Rolling a hundred feet
down a mountain embankment a car containing George Avila, Mrs. Avila, and their three children, crashed off the
Pacheco Pass highway Sunday evening, resulting in the fatal injury of Avila and wounds of varying degrees of
seriousness for Mrs. Avila and their two daughters and one son. His family was thrown clear of the rolling car as it took
its mad course down the hillside, tearing off the top of the sedan in its passage, but Avila was pinned beneath the machine
as it finally settled to rest, crushing him so badly that he lived but a short time after reaching a hospital at Hollister,
whence he was hurried as rapidly as possible. The mishap occurred about seven p.m. as the family were returning from
Salinas where they had gone that day to make reservations for the forthcoming Salinas rodeo. Cause a Mystery
They had reached a point a quarter of a mile up the heavy grade that ascends the rang starting from the large bridge east
of Bell Station. While a series of sharp turns had just been passed, the road was straight at the point where the mishap
took place, there was no one passing and speeding would have been impossible as the grade is near the limit for high gear
climbing for the average fully loaded car. According to statements made by the survivors to relatives, the only intimation
they had of anything wrong was when Avila cried - "My god, I can't straighten the wheel," and the car headed for the
edge and over. Examination of the road afterward showed no trace of locked brakes, nor was the situation one where
brakes were likely to have been used previous to trouble developing. By good fortune, one of the first arrivals after the
crash was a trained nurse who gave great assistance in first-aid treatment. The victims were taken to the nearest hospital,
at Hollister, although refusal of many motorists to aid, resulted in considerable delay before the less seriously hurt
children were taken into town. Avila died soon after reaching the hospital. Diagnosis of the injuries of the others
revealed that Mrs. Avila incurred a badly crushed leg and internal injuries of undetermined extent; Annabelle had a leg
fractured in two places; Gerald had a wrenched back and internal injuries, and Ethelrose a wrenched shoulder and had
cuts on the legs. All are reported doing nicely and out of danger.
Funeral Wednesday; Avila's remains were brought to Newman, funeral services being held from the Davis funeral chapel
there Wednesday morning, followed by interment in Del Puerto cemetery at Patterson. The deceased was a prominent
cattle man, not only operating a Colony farm but also owning and leasing large area of range lands in the hills. He was
37 years of age and a native of California, coming from a large family, which is well-known on the West Side. He is
survived by his aged mother, Mrs. J. M. Avila of Crows Landing, and ten brothers and sisters, as follows: Mrs. John
Borba, Daniel and Joseph Avila of Crows Landing; John Avila of Merced; William Avila of Porterville; Frank Avila of
San Juan; Ann and Manuel Avila and Mrs. Belle Stevens of San Jose, and Mrs. Rose Jones of Roseberg, Oregon.
Azevedo Manuel 290927 p4
Father Passes; Manuel Azevedo received word this week of the passing of his father In the Azores Islands at the age of
85. He resided on Pica Island and had large land holdings both on that island and on Teceira Island. Mass tor the
deceased will be held at Sacred Heart church next Monday at 9 am.
Barker Donald 291002 p1
Baby is Crushed by father's Truck; The Arthur Barker family, former Patterson residents, figured in a most distressing
tragedy at Salinas Friday noon when their two-year old son, Donald, was crushed to death underneath the wheel of
Barker's truck. Barker drives a truck for a large lettuce concern there and had parked his loaded vehicle at the curb during
the dinner hour. Leaving to return to work, he was just about to start when Donald rushed out and demanded a head of
lettuce to feed his rabbit with. His parents accompanied him back to the pen while he did this and then Barker returned to
his truck. The baby must have ran around the other side of the house to the rear of the car, unobserved and slipped
underneath as Barker started up. One of the wheels of the two and a hall ton load passed directly over his head. H. C.
Hanson, brother of Mrs. Barker, and Mrs. Hanson and Frank Smith and family and Walter Sorenson and family went over
to attend the funeral
Bickford Mae E 290215 p2
Pioneer Woman Passes Away; Mrs. Mae Estelle Bickford passed away Monday morning at the home of her son, U. M.
Bickrford, following an extended illness. The deceased was a pioneer resident of the state. A native of Maine, she came
to Stockton in 1872. Three years ago, she removed to Patterson to make her home with her son. Another son, Earl,
resides at Sacramento, and two sisters Mrs. Gertrude Pierce of Turlock, and Mrs. Addie Hewett, survive her. Funeral
services were held at the Davis & Evans chapel Wednesday morning, following which the remains were taken to
Stockton for services there in the afternoon. Interment was made in Park View cemetery at Stockton. Rev. Barthol Pierce
of Sonora officiated. Others from out-of-town present here were Mrs. Addie Hewett, Walter Hewett, Mr. And Mrs. Fred
Hewett, Mr.and Mrs. Will Marr and Cleo Crawford of Hayward; Harry Hewett of Oakland; Mr.and Mrs. Will Pierce and
John Pierce of Turlock and Dave Matthews of Stockton.
Bonde Infant 290712 p1
Buried Here; The infant son of Mr. And Mrs. Walter Bonde of Merced, who died Wednesday, will be interred in the
family plot in Del Puerto cemetery today by Davis & Evans. Bonde is a former local boy.
Boyns Dolly 290315 p1
Auto Crash Fatal to Girl; Miss Dolly Boyns Dies as Result of Accident; A trivial incident had a tragic ending Thursday
night last week when a "ride around the block" resulted in a crash and upset that brought fatal injuries for Miss Dolly
Varden Boyns, while her companion Miss Margaret Parker, escaped with minor hurts. The crash occurred on Salado
avenue west of the Catholic church when the girls attempted to change seats. The car was going slowly at the time, but
they lost control of the wheel and it veered into a tree and turned over, pinning Miss Boyns under the seat, the car having
no top. Miss Parker escaped from the car and struggled frantically to extricate her unconscious companion, succeeding in
lifting the car a little, but was forced to let it back. Her cries brought a group of high school students who were leaving
the school, within a few minutes, however, and Miss Boyns was rescued. A superficial examination revealed only broken
arm, and serious results (next several line not readable) Both girls were employed at the restaurant in Watson & Mack's
and the episode stared when they had the idea of taking a short ride to get out in the air after work. Carl Medlin's work
car was handy and they decided to use it, although Medlin tried to dissuade them, saying that the car was in poor shape.
But they took it anyway and the fatal crash came before they had gone but a few blocks. Funeral services were held at the
Davis & Evans chapel Tuesday afternoon with Rev. T. J. Preston officiating, followed by interment in Del Puerto
cemetery. The deceased was a sister of Mrs. D. T. Simpson and Mrs. Harold Frame, and had been here about 7 months,
coming from her home at Eureka, Utah. She was 22 years of age and a native of Utah, and beside the local relatives, is
survived by the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Boyns, who came here for the services; a brother, Carl, located at Los
Banos, who attended the services, and four other brothers and sisters.
Brown William JH 291129 p7
Newman Index; Father of Mrs. Minnie Hansen Passes Away; William J. H. Brown, aged father of a large family of
children, now living at various points in the San Joaquin, passed away Tuesday at his home near Newman, only four days
before his eightieth birthday. Saturday next would have made him an octogenarian. The old gentleman was a native of
Germany, but had spent most of his long and busy life in America and much of it in California. He is survived by seven
children, all living in different parts of the valley. They are August Brown of Chowchilla, Ferdinana Brown and Annie
Brown of Newman, E .J. Brown of Reedley, Mrs. Minnie Hansen of Patterson; Mrs. Lena Lowrey of Oakdale and Mrs.
Emma Hoegh of Tulare. Funeral services will be held this afternoon at Lutheran Church in Newman, Rev. von Renner
officiating, with interment at the local cemetery.
Carpenter A L 290329 p1
A. L. Carpenter Passes Away Tuesday; Plans of A. L. Carpenter to retire form an active life were short lived when he
passed away at Sacramento Tuesday, the day following the disposal of his local ranch. Carpenter has been very ill during
the past year but had recovered somewhat, but was unable to continue management of his suburban acreage and sold the
place 12 acres just south on the highway, to J. E. Gayetty. He left for Sacramento to visit friends before going to San
Francisco, where he planned to stay, but became worse very suddenly and passed away Tuesday.
Cochran Sarah E 290329 p1
Death of Mrs. S. E. Cochran; Mrs. Sarah E. Cochran passed away at the home of her sister, Mrs. C. E. Newberg, on
Bartch avenue Saturday morning. The deceased, an aunt of Mrs. D. E. Williams, came from Iowa with the Newbergs
several years ago. A son, Ray L. Cochran of Los Angeles, survives and the remains were shipped there following services
at the Evans funeral chapel Sunday afternoon. Rev. R. W. Lamkin presided.
Coito de John 290329 p2
Bull's Attack Fatal to Coito; Attacked by Presumably gentle Animal on Son's Ranch; John de Coito, aged 46, was fatally
injured Saturday by a bull, which attacked him when he entered a corral on the Morris ranch east of Crows Landing,
operated by his son, Frank de Coito, and son-in-law, Albert C. Silveira. As usual in such cases, the animal was considered
gentle and Coito had no fear of him. But his confidence was misplaced, for the huge animal attacked him, and though his
horns were blunt and his victim was not gored, he was butted two or three times, before the younger men could drive off
the bull. The injured man was rushed to the Newman hospital, where his condition was found to be hopeless. His chest
was practically crushed, seven ribs and the collar bone being broken, and the internal injuries were necessarily fatal. He
died before midnight. The deceased is survived by his wife and two children; a son, Frank, and daughter, Mrs. A.
Silveira. Funeral services were held at the Crows Landing Catholic church Tuesday, with interment at the Newman
cemetery. A large assemblage gathered to pay tribute to the departed.
Davis Fannie V 290726 p1
Passing of Mrs. Fannie Davis Yesterday; Suffering a relapse following her partial recovery from a stroke just three weeks
ago, Mrs. Fannie V. Davis passed away early yesterday morning at the Fred Ventuleth home. All of her immediate family
were with her at the end, including her sister, Mrs. Hattie Travers of Albany, Oregon; her daughter, Mrs. Fred Ventuleth;
and three grandchildren - Frances and Douglas McElhern and Freddie Ventuleth. The deceased was a native of Alabama,
but has spent a large portion of her life in this state and has been a Patterson resident for many years. Funeral services
will be held from the chapel of Davis & Evans tomorrow, Saturday, at 2 p.m. followed by interment in Del Puerto
cemetery.
Dhal Fred 290823 p2
Former Resident Dies in South; Fred Dahl, former local resident, having owned property at Eucalyptus and the highway
in the earlier days of the Colony, passed away at Long Beach. last week. He was 61 years of age. The remains were taken
east to his old home at Elk Point, South Dakota. for interment.
Dolling Jack 290308 p1
Oil Burns Are Fatal; Explosion of Stove Causes Fatal Injury to Ranch Worker; Transformed into a living torch by the
explosion of an oil stove he had attempted to fill while it was burning, Jack Dolling, laborer at the Sunflower Ranch,
incurred burns which proved fatal Monday afternoon following four days of suffering. Dolling was engaged in preparing
breakfast in his cabin on the ranch west of Patterson when the mishap occurred. He was alone at the time although others
in the ranch house nearby heard him singing and remarked that he seemed happy that morning. The next they knew was
when he ran out of the cabin screaming and rolled on the ground in an attempt to beat out the flames. Other workmen
rushed to his rescue but difficulty was experienced in beating out the blaze and he was terribly burned before they were
extinguished. The cabin was destroyed also. George Covell, owner of the ranch, who was there, rushed Dolling to the
county hospital at Modesto, but little could be done for him and he passed away Monday. Dolling has been employed
around here at intervals for several years past, but little was know of him otherwise. He was 45 years of age.
Ellis Henry 290419 p2
Death of Henry Ellis at Concord; News was received yesterday of the death at Concord Wednesday of Henry S. Ellis, for
many years a West Side resident, having lived at Newman, Crows Landing and Patterson successively and been active in
several lines. Ellis was an early-day bookkeeper for the Simon Newman company at Newman; later engaged in business
at Crows Landing, the firm being first Ellis and Wahlhaus and later Ellis & McAulay store. When Patterson was started
Ellis entered in business, selling out later, only to return in a new venture which he left to go to Concord. He is survived
by his wife and three sons. Henry Ellis was one of the most widely known men on the West Side in his time, and the
news of his death will be received with sorrow. Funeral services are held today at Hanford, with interment in the family
plot at the little settlement of Grangeville, near Hanford.
Forry Henry-Virginia 290906 p1
Green Fruit Fatal to 2; Two Children Stricken Following Eating of Green Grapes; A happy vacation trip to Patterson was
transformed into tragedy for Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Forry of Los Angeles when their family of two children was wiped out
by a fatal malady within a short period, their small daughter passing away Thursday last week while her brother died
Sunday. Green grapes were blamed as the principal cause of the trouble, which was diagnosed as septic entero colitis.
The Forry family drove up Saturday to bring Mrs. H. B. Forry home from an extended visit with them in the South, the
families being a case of two brothers marrying two sisters. They planned to return Sunday and although both children had
an attack of stomach ache, no particular attention was given it. But the attacks rapidly became violent and by the time
Turlock was reached a doctor's aid was sought. They were placed in a hospital there and all possible done in the way of
treatment but both failed to respond to any measures taken and grew worse until Virginia, aged 7, passed away Thursday.
and Henry, aged 4, followed her Sunday. The remains were shipped to Los Angeles for interment, funeral services being
held there Tuesday.
Prevalent In South; According to Dr. A. M. Field, who was called in consultation of the case, such attacks are not
uncommon, but rarely become so violent or fail to respond to treatment when given so promptly as in these cases. An
exceptional number of similar cases have been reported in the Los Angeles area this summer, according to Dr. Field,
although not as serious as these. And there is room for conjecture as to whether the children's illness might have had its
origin before leaving the south or whether it was caused entirely by eating unripe fruit after arriving here.
Foster Arthur C 290517 p1
A. Foster Passes at Modesto Tuesday; Arthur C. Foster, Colony resident for many years, passed away at a Modesto
hospital Tuesday evening following an illness which had kept him confined for four or five months past. He was a native
of Iowa, aged 73 years, and is survived by one daughter, Dorothy of Los Angeles; and two sons, M. N. Foster of Upper
Lake and Clarence Foster of Berkeley. The latter are here to attend the funeral services which will be held at 2:30 this
afternoon from the chapel of Davis & Evans, followed by interment in Del Puerto cemetery.
Friddle Glenn 290322 p1
Crossing Crash Kills One; "Owl" Imperiled; Spectacular Crash Kills Former Pattersonite; Limited Train Endangered
In the most spectacular crash in years in this vicinity, Glenn Friddle, driving a big truck for J. J. Smith was almost
instantly killed yesterday morning at the Southern Pacific highway crossing just south of Crows landing. The big, heavy
truck, was hit broadside on by the northbound Owl Limited; the machine being utterly wrecked, and in the fire that
followed the explosion of the car's tanks both the engineer and firemen of the limited were burned slightly, and the
engine, tender and mail car more or less scorched by fire. Friddle was still breathing when picked up, but was scarcely
alive. His skull was crushed and his clothing destroyed by fire.
Followed Another Truck; Friddle, hauling calves to the city market, had loaded a lot of the Western Meat company at
Newman, and was following George Carvalho of the Acme market to the Terry slaughter house near Crows Landing to
complete his load. Carvalho drove over the crossing safely, well ahead of the Owl's arrival. It is believed that Friddle,
mechanically following the other truck, failed to look for a train. As he had to make a sharp turn, he must have been
moving slowly, and could have stopped in a few yards, but there is no evidence that he tried to stop.
Tremendous Smash; Evidently the force of the collision was tremendous. The heavy frame of the truck was twisted out
of shape, and carried more than two blocks before the train could be stopped, being thrown off just south of the Crows
Landing depot. It was about an hour before the fire burned out and the track was cleared to enable the train to proceed.
The engine men were able to take the train in, their burns not being severe.
Considerable Damage; The truck, worth around $3000, is a total loss. The owner, J. J. ( Red ) Smith, carried insurance,
both for property damage and employees' compensation, so part of his loss will be covered, and the family of the
deceased will receive the customary allowance, which is said to be practically standardized at $5000. Friddle is a former
local resident, having charge of the P. G. & E. sub-station at the No. 2 plant of the Patterson Water company last year.
He leaves a wife and two children.
Dangerous Possibilities; A disastrous rail wreck might very easily have resulted. Striking such a heavy truck precisely at
a switch junction could easily derail the engine. As it was some of the rail spikes were sheared off, and two switch
targets smashed. A derailment, with cars thrown into the blazing truck, would have shocking possibilities. Another
danger was the presence of the big Shell storage tanks, off the right of way, but so near that a derailed train might have
crashed into them.
Hammonds William J 290607 p1
Pioneer of Early Days Passes Away; A pioneer, both of California and of this district, William J. Hammonds passed away
at a Modesto hospital Monday following an illness of some duration. Hammonds was 76 years of age and had spent all
but the first few years of his life in this state, coming here from Kentucky where he was born, about 70 years ago, to the
San Joaquin valley. And for the past 42 years he has been a resident of this immediate district. He is survived by two
sons, Lester and William both of Patterson, and three daughters. Mrs. William Peall of Patterson, Mrs. Frank Horr of
Patterson and Mrs. W. E. Court of Modesto. Surviving brothers and sisters are John Hammonds of Alameda, Mrs.
George Stinson of Bakersfield, Mrs. Georgia Brown of Patterson, Kay Hammonds of Los Banos, Mrs Anna White of
Stockton, Mrs. Mike Galvin of San Francisco and Mrs. Lizzie Gaffery of Stockton. Funeral services were held from the
chapel of Davis & Evans yesterday afternoon, with Rev. T. J. Preston presiding. The remains were then taken to Lathrop
for interment
Hollister Eudorice 290927 p8
Third Crash victim Dies; Making the death roll of the Pacheco pass tragedy on September 7, 100 per cent, Eudorice
Hollister, the third and last member of the Newman baseball team in the car that went off the grade, passed away at
Hollister Friday night, after a two weeks' battle against death. "Mickey" made a brave uphill fight, but lacked the strength
to recover after an operation which removed one of his legs. The removal of the other bad been under consideration and
might have been done had he recovered from the operation sufficiently. Both legs were terribly fractured. His two
companions had preceded him - Elachus Pfitzer instantly killed and "Cam" Templeton living but a few hours after the
crash.
Honette Matilda 290111 p1
Death of Mrs. L Honette at Turlock; Following an extended illness, Mrs. Matilda Honette, wife of Leonard Honette of
Eucalyptus avenue, passed away at a Turlock hospital Saturday. She had been a resident of Patterson for the past fifteen
years, being a native of Sweden. The husband and a nephew, J. B. Anderson are the surviving local relatives. Funeral
services were held from the Swedish Mission church Tuesday afternoon with Rev. H. E. Nordquist officiating, followed
by interment in Del Puerto cemetery, with Davis & Evans in charge. Mrs. Albin Freeburg of Los Angeles and Mrs. L. E.
Rendahl of Berkeley, nieces of the deceased, were here to attend the funeral.
Krumbiegel FR 290920 p1
Merchant Passes Following an Operation; After withstanding the ordeal of a major operation in excellent fashion F. R.
Krumbiegel had a relapse Thursday which resulted in his death at a Modesto hospital that afternoon. The deceased was a
native of Germany, aged 49 years, and had been a local resident since the first of last year, coming here from Salida,
where he had lived for 15 years. He is survived by the widow and a step-son, Harold Hunsacker. While a comparative
newcomer among local business men, Krumbiegel had already proved himself an aggressive and public-spirited citizen,
having erected a fine home and installed a modern market in the new Jadeerquist building. Krumbiegel had a colorful and
interesting career. Enlisting in the German navy as a youth, he saw many parts of the globe. As orderly to the captain or
his vessel, he served the present King of England when he was Prince of Wales, during a courtesy visit in an Australia
port. Krumbiegel later settled in Australia and was there for a number of years before coming to California. Funeral
services were held Monday morning from a Modesto funeral chapel under the auspices of Modesto lodge of Elks,
followed by interment there. Local business houses closed during the services.
Leaf Alex 290517 p1
Sudden Passing of Mrs. Alex Leaf; Falling from her chair as she was preparing to operate a sewing machine Friday
morning. Mrs. Anna Leaf passed away without warning at the family home on South Fifth street. The deceased was a
native of Sweden, aged 55 years, and had been a resident of Patterson for the past nine years, the family coming here
from Chicago. She is survived by the husband, Alex Leaf; three children, David, Marie and Arthur; her parents, Mr. And
Mrs. A. M. Quist of Patterson; three sisters, Mrs. J. J. Carlson, Mrs. C. R. Almquist and Miss Celia Quist, all of
Patterson; and three brothers residing in Minnesota. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon from the Swedish
Mission church with Rev. H. E. Norquist officiating, followed by interment in Del Puerto cemetery. Davis & Evans had
charge of arrangements.
Lokka Olaf S 290913 p1
Early Settler In Colony Passes Away; Olaf S. Lokka, pioneer settler of Patterson Colony, passed away at a Turlock
hospital Friday morning following a long battle against illness which was finally lost. Lokka was almost 63 years of age,
a native of Norway, and a pioneer settler in Patterson Colony, establishing the present home of the family on Las Palmas
avenue in 1910, nineteen years ago, when there were but about a dozen farms in the new colony. The deceased took an
active part in community affairs and was a trustee of Patterson high school for many years, and the high esteem in which
he was held by all was testified to by the large attendance at the funeral services, which were held Monday afternoon
from the Lutheran church, with Rev. H. J. Thrope officiating. Interment in Del Puerto cemetery followed, with
arrangements in charge of Davis & Evans. Beside the widow, three sons, survive - Sigvold E. of Los Angeles, Alfred B.
of Inglewood and Olaf L. of Patterson. Friends and relatives from a distance who came to attend the service included Mr.
And Mrs. S. E. Lokka, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Lokka and two sons, Miss Augusta Tunstrom and Arthur Olson from San
Francisco, Mrs. Anna Nelson and daughter, Mr. And Mrs. L. Warwick and two sons, Miss Olina Blomgren and Iver and
Albert Blomgren from Hayward; and Mr.and Mrs. Fred Houser from Stockton.
Malone Mrs Charles O 290927 p1
Former Local Woman Killed; News of a tragedy involving a former Patterson family was brought by Rupert Malone
Saturday when he visited the J. B. Fulton home. Mrs. Charles O. Malone was killed and her daughter very badly inured,
in an auto crash several weeks ago while the latter was being taken back to her Oakland home by the family from
Burbank, where they now live. The daughter, Mrs. Florence Hutchinson, is now getting along favorably and will recover.
The Malone family were among the early settlers here and are well-known to all old residents of the colony.
McNaughton Mrs E 290621 p2
Former Resident Passes; According to word received by Mrs. Mary Burkes, Mrs. E. McNaughton passed away at
Sacramento Sunday, funeral services being held there Wednesday. The McNaughtons are known to all old timers here
living here and owning extensive range lands in the hills. They still own city property here.
Miles William 290913 p4
Fails To Survive Westley Crash Injuries; The ashes of the late William Miles were brought to Newman from Berkeley
last week to be scattered on the grave of his father there, William Miles, a West Side pioneer. Miles fai1ed to recover
from serious injuries incurred in an upset at the West Stanislaus canal crossing north of Westley last winter when his
brother Alvin, who was driving, failed to see a detour in time to negotiate it safely. A heavy damage suit against the
contractors building the siphon was filed following the accident.
Morgan Burton Mr Mrs 290802 p1
Narrow Road Cause of Death of Mr. and Mrs. Burton Morgan; The fatal combination of one-truck, high-crowned road
and juggernaut truck that is a terror to all drivers on the Vernalis-Tracy road caused a double tragedy Tuesday morning
when Burton Morgan of Patterson was instantly killed and Mrs. Morgan incurred fatal injuries, from which she passed
away 42 hours later. The crash occurred when the Morgan car attempted to pass a huge freight van driven by Ralph
Parker of Newman, the Morgan car capsizing after passing the truck. Morgan was instantly killed in the crash, his body
being terribly mangled, with the head and chest crushed, both arms and legs broken, and other injuries. Mrs. Morgan was
at first believed to have both legs fractured, but after being rushed to a Modesto hospital, examination revealed that these
wounds were only extremely severe laceration. Wednesday morning her condition was reported favorable and no serious
results anticipated. But that night she rapidly descended due to unsuspected internal injuries and passed away at 8 a.m.
Thursday. Rena Morgan, their daughter, third occupant of the car, escaped practically unhurt.
Details of Crash; The Morgans were in route to San Francisco Tuesday morning and were between the Hurst service
station and the railroad crossing on the bad stretch of road west and north of Vernalis a few minutes after nine o'clock.
Here they overtook the truck, driven by Parker and owned by J. J. "Red" Smith of Newman. According to Rena, the
truck was traveling at a fast rate of speed for such a large vehicle and repeated sounding of the horn asking the driver to
pull over and allow them to pass were ignored. Finally Morgan decided to turn clear out off the road and pass. This
necessitated a high speed for such uncertain footing and in swinging back onto the road again something went wrong.
Here the story is best followed from the account of Parker, who's statement corroborates other reports with the exception
of speed, denying he was going over 28 miles per hour and quoting the driver of a following car as proof. Parker, who is
badly broken up over the affair, admits he did not hear the horn, but attributes this to a very noisy engine. His first
knowledge of the presence of the Morgan car was when it appeared at his left. He then started to swing out to the right to
permit the sedan to pass, he declares. As the Morgan car swung back onto the pavement, either the high ridge of the
paved strip or the proximity of a concrete abutment, or both, made the driver turn too short, and his car swung squarely in
front of the truck, within ten feet distance, still moving to the right. So Parker swing to the left to avoid him. But at the
same instant Morgan finding himself headed for the opposite concrete abutment, again swung to the left, so suddenly that
his car turned broadside on and went over on its side, with the wheels in the air facing the truck. Attempting to pass on
the left, the truck caught a corner of the car and dragged it off the road. Apparently Mrs. Morgan and the daughter were
thrown to the right of the falling car, while Morgan jumped or was thrown to the left, squarely in the path of the truck,
and was probably run over. Owing to the many conflicting tales in circulation and the difficulty of comprehending the
exact course of the cars, the accompanying sketch is published. As the Morgan car was dragged out and towed to Tracy
very shortly after the smash and other markings badly confused, complete verification of the account given is impossible.
But it seems to fit into the known facts most accurately.
Taken to Modesto; Mrs. Morgan was rushed to a Modesto hospital by an ambulance from Tracy, while Morgan's
remains were taken to Stockton by the San Joaquin county Coroner, and later brought to Patterson by Davis & Evans.
Morgan was a native of Indiana, aged 50 years, and was a pioneer resident, having been engaged in the contracting
business here since 1911. Mrs. Morgan was about the same age also a native of Indiana. The daughter, Rena, and a son,
Lauren, is survived by a former marriage, Ray Morgan of Patterson and Cecil Morgan of Long Beach, who came up at
once when he was notified. Two sisters of Mrs. Morgan– Mrs. Alice Garrett and Mrs. Edith Mathews of Berkeley, rushed
to her bedside following the crash. Another sister, Mrs. James Sloan of Lompoc is touring in Europe. Two brothers Will
Simpson of Orland and John Simpson of Los Angles, also survive.
Funeral Today; A double funeral service will be held this afternoon at 2 o'clock from the chapel of Davis & Evans with
Dr. T J. Preston officiating.
At Del Puerto cemetery, the Rebekah lodge will take charge of services for Mrs. Morgan, while the Odd Fellows will
handle the last rites for Morgan, the two being members of the respective organizations.
Linked with Mystery The fatal trip of the Morgans was liked with a peculiar San Francisco mystery, still unsolved. A
cousin of the Morgan's a San Francisco accountant, disappeared three weeks ago into thin air and no trace has been found
of him or any motive for his disappearance given. A man who was intensely devoted to his family and always in close
contact with them, accustomed to notifying them when he was even a few minutes late, he vanished without a trace.
Worry over the matter caused his wife to call Morgan, planning to come down here for a visit and rest, and they were on
their way to get her when the crash occurred.
Called from Camp; Lauren Morgan was called from the military training camp at Monterey by the tragedy. The camp
was scheduled to end Wednesday but H. R. Smith went over Tuesday afternoon and brought Lauren and the other local
boys, Orthon Nelson, Robert Munson and Perry Smith, back that night.
Morris M L Mrs 290503 p2
Aged Lady is Killed by Fall; Crows Landing, Calif., May 2.; Stark tragedy entered the community Saturday afternoon,
when Mrs. M. L. Morris, long a local resident, fell headlong down a flight of cellar steps at the home of her sister, Mrs.
W. D. Bell, suffering a fractured skull and other injuries which brought about her death at 2 Sunday morning. The door
at the head of the steps adjoins one leading to the bathroom and the elderly lady, in her eighty-fourth year, opened the
wrong door, and, afflicted with failing eyes, stepped to her death. Mrs. Morris, or as she was lovingly called by
practically the entire community, Aunt Jenny, was a resident here 64 years. Born in Pike County, Missouri, in 1845, she
was educated in the district schools there and in the Watson Seminary. In 1865, a young and adventurous girl of 20, she
joined her father, the pioneer Isaac Crow in the then perilous journey across the plains and mountains to California,
making the trip in a canvas covered wagon drawn by oxen. In 1866, at Stockton, she became the bride of Captain M. L.
Morris and shortly there after came to Crows Landing to make her home in the center of the rich land holdings which she
still held intact after the death of her husband several years ago. Mrs. Morris walked through life quietly, unassumingly
and unobtrusively, yet her years were filled to the brim with many kindly deeds. Never an unkind word passed her lips,
never an unkind act came from her hands - never an unkind thought entered her mind, and for these sterling qualities she
reaped the reward of unfailing friendship and loyalty on the part of her neighbors. Her hobby was church work and her
interest and enthusiasm for the local Presbyterian Church never flagged or waved. The Ladies Aid Society was her
especial care, and for twenty-five years she was its president and active leader, retiring from the position some four years
ago due to failing health. In appreciation of her splendid service to the organization the members elected her to the
position of president-emeritus.
Mortensen Mahilda 290322 p1
Mother of Harry Mortensen Passes; What was planned as a happy vacation visit was abruptly terminated Monday
morning when Mrs. Mathilda Mortensen passed away at the home of her son, Harry Mortensen within 48 hours following
her arrival. She was ill before leaving her Humboldt county home but insisted on making the trip anyway, and Mortensen
met her at San Rafael to complete the journey. She failed rapidly, however, after arrival here and the end came soon.
Mrs. Mortensen was a native of Sweden, being 64 years of age. Another son, Alfred Mortensen, of Loleta, came down
Tuesday and funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon from the chapel of Davis & Evans. Christian Science
services were read by Mrs. H. R. Smith, interment in the Masonic plot at Del Puerto cemetery following.
Nelson AE 291122 p1
Passes Away Suddenly; Mrs. A. E. Nelson passed away Thursday evening a few hours after her removal to a Turlock
hospital, suffering from a diabetes attack. The deceased was 63 years of age and had been a Patterson resident for some
years, Mr. Nelson being a carpenter. Funeral services were held at Ripon Monday followed by interment at Park View
cemetery, Stockton.
Noland Virgil 290802 p1
Shot Kills Deer Hunter; Pre-Season Casualty in the Coast Range Mountains; Virgil Noland, seventeen year old boy living
near Modesto, was a preseason victim of the deer-hunting period when he was fatally shot in the accidental discharge of a
rifle Wednesday afternoon in the Coast Range Hills. Noland and his father, Henry Noland, were preparing camp up the
Graces canyon west of Gustine, when Virgil stumbled with the gun in his hand, resulting in its discharge, sending a bullet
through his leg. The leg was badly shattered, and although his father bound it up the best he could, the boy died within
half an hour after the accident, while starting out for medical attention.
Peterson Hazel 290726 p1
Passing of Mrs. C. R. Peterson at Modesto; Death inflicted an unusually severe blow Saturday in taking a young wife and
mother - Mrs. Rutherford Peterson, wife of a former Peterson boy now living at Modesto. Mrs. Hazel Peterson was 31
years of age, and beside the husband and infant daughter, Hazel Marianne, is survived by her mother, Mrs. Grace Pettle
of Salina, Kansas, and ten brothers and sisters. Her mother and sister, Irene, had been with her at Modesto for several
weeks past. Following services at Modesto Tuesday afternoon, at which the Rev. A. C. Stevens officiated, the remains
were shipped to Salina for interment, accompanied by the husband, mother and sister, Elton Peterson of San Francisco
also accompanied the party as the representative of the C. P. Peterson family.
Pfitzer Eachus 290913 p1
2 Killed in Crash; Eachus Pfitzer; The Paeheco pass grade was again the scene of a shocking fatality Saturday evening,
when a car carrying three young men, en route from Newman to Gilroy, went off the grade, fatally injuring two, while the
third is in a critical condition. Eachus Pfitzer, 24, son of Mrs. Roy Gill of Newman, driving the car, was instantly killed.
Clarence Templeton of Fresno, pitcher on the Newman baseball team, was so badly injured that he died Sunday about
noon. Eudorice Hollister, son of Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Hollister of Newman, has compound fractures of. both legs and is in
a serious condition.
Speed Cause of Smash; Hollister, the only one who was able to give any report of the smash says it was simply a case of
driving too fast. Pfitzer, driving a fast light car, hit a gait that was too speedy for that sort of a road and was unable to
keep the car on the road at the curve. The machine, according to the reports of the wrecking crew, appears to have jumped
clear about 80 feet turning over at least once as it landed almost upside down, crushing in the rear part of the roof, which
took the force of the fall, upon the occupants. The chassis was not greatly damaged, indeed the car when righted was
capable of operating, except for the smashed upper body.
Baseball Party Panned Trip; The party, which comprised several other members or the Newman baseball team in other
cars, planned the trip late Saturday, when they learned that the game scheduled for Sunday was called off, the San
Francisco semi~pro team having phoned that they could not come. Then some of tho boys suggested going to a Gilroy
dance, since they had no game next day, and they started in three cars. The boys in the other cars must have passed the
scene of the wreck without seeing any sign of it, and they did not miss the trio for some little time.
Proctor Wlm 290628 p2
Two Drown in San Joaquin River Sunday; William Proctor; The section of the San Joaquin river northwest of Vernalis,
which seems to be a prolific source of fatalities in recent years, added two more drowning to its list Sunday. Oakland
people, who come up there for weekend outings, provide the most victims, and another Oakland man was killed Sunday -
William Proctor, aged 30, who went down at McLeod's Beach. Alberto Yiminez, Mexican section hand employed by the
S. P. at Vernalis was the other victim, going down near the mouth of the Stanislaus river.
Robb Lee 291011 p1
Odd Cause of Death Crash; J. R. Pearson of Modesto, brother of Mrs. F. H. Roberts of Patterson, was involved in an
unusual accident Tuesday on the Tracy-Stockton highway which resulted in the death of Lee Robb of Lathrop. Pearson
was following another car when the latter turned out to pass Robb, driving a hay wagon. At that instant some papers
blew off the seat and Pearson involuntarily turned to grab for them and when he looked up and saw the wagon, it was too
late to avoid a crash. Robb being thrown out on his head.
Silveira Emily 290104 p1
Mother of Large Family Dies Tuesday; Mrs. Emily Silveira passed away Tuesday evening at the home of her daughter,
Mrs. John Amador, at the corner of Sycamore and Apricot. Lung trouble being the cause of death. The deceased is
survived by a large family of sons and daughters, the local children, besides Mrs. Amador, including Mrs. Frank Avila,
Mrs. M. M. Castro, and Frank and Manuel Silveira. She was 59 years of age. Funeral services will be held this morning
at 10 o'clock from Sacred Heart church, with interment at Modesto. Davis & Evans have charge of arrangements.
Smith Josephine 290412 p1
Dies Vary Suddenly; Miss Josephine Smith, Local Teacher, Passes; The community was shocked yesterday morning by
news of the sudden death of Miss Josephine M. Smith, for ten years past a member of the elementary school faculty.
When she failed to appear at her desk at the Northmead school yesterday morning, inquiry was made at the Ingolf
Torvent home where she resided and an investigation was made, resulting in finding her dead in her bed.
Dr. A. M. Field was summoned and declared that she had been dead for some hours, probably since midnight of the night
before, and while heart trouble was quite probably the cause, this could not be stated definitely without an autopsy.
Communication was had with a nephew, Dr. Porter McEwen of Oakland, who came up to take charge of her affairs, but
at this writing funeral arrangements had not been completed. Miss Smith entered the local school service in September,
1919, and was just completing her tenth year here. As a first grade teacher, she has introduced hundreds of local children
to school duties and was held in affectionate regard by them, her love for children leading to many little kindnesses
outside of the school curriculum on which she expended her own time and funds.
Souza Manuel F 290111 p1
Last Local Civil War Veteran Passes; Believed to be the last veteran of the Civil War in this section, Manuel F. Souza
passed away yesterday at the Manuel Rogers ranch at the advanced age of 95 years. He as a native of the Azores but came
to this country early in life and was serving in the navy at the time of the great conflict. He has been making his home at
the Rogers ranch for the past eight years or so. Funeral services will be held from the Catholic church tomorrow at 10 a.
m. with interment in St. Mary's cemetery. The American Legion will assist in the services. Arrangements are in charge
of Davis & Evans.
Stinson Margaret 291129 p6
Pioneer School Teacher Passes; A pioneer school teacher, who taught many present prominent West Siders their A B Cs
forty years ago in the Bonita and Grayson schools, passed away recently in Kern county. Mrs. Margaret Stinson was the
teacher, although better known to her old pupils as Miss Margaret Hammonds. She was a sister of Mrs. Georgia Brown of
Patterson, Mrs Edward White and Mrs. John Gaffery of Stockton and Mrs. Michael Galvin of San Francisco, as well as
having five brothers in the north. Mrs. Stinson was 75 years of age. She had taught for many years in Kern county also.
Templeton Clarence 290913 p1
2 Killed in Crash; Clarence Templeton; The Paeheco pass grade was again the scene of a shocking fatality Saturday
evening, when a car carrying three young men, en route from Newman to Gilroy, went off the grade, fatally injuring two,
while the third is in a critical condition. Eachus Pfitzer, 24, son of Mrs. Roy Gill of Newman, driving the car, was
instantly killed. Clarence Templeton of Fresno, pitcher on the Newman baseball team, was so badly injured that he died
Sunday about noon. Eudorice Hollister, son of Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Hollister of Newman, has compound fractures of. both
legs and is in a serious condition.
Speed Cause of Smash; Hollister, the only one who was able to give any report of the smash says it was simply a case of
driving too fast. Pfitzer, driving a fast light car, hit a gait that was too speedy for that sort of a road and was unable to
keep the car on the road at the curve. The machine, according to the reports of the wrecking crew, appears to have jumped
clear about 80 feet turning over at least once as it landed almost upside down, crushing in the rear part of the roof, which
took the force of the fall, upon the occupants. The chassis was not greatly damaged, indeed the car when righted was
capable of operating, except for the smashed upper body.
Baseball Party Panned Trip; The party, which comprised several other members or the Newman baseball team in other
cars, planned the trip late Saturday, when they learned that the game scheduled for Sunday was called off, the San
Francisco semi~pro team having phoned that they could not come. Then some of tho boys suggested going to a Gilroy
dance, since they had no game next day, and they started in three cars. The boys in the other cars must have passed the
scene of the wreck without seeing any sign of it, and they did not miss the trio for some little time.
Thoming Jurgen P 290913 p6
Early West Side Pioneer Is Dead; One of the longest continuous residents of the West Side passed away last week when
Jurgen Parson Thoming, better known as George Thoming, step-father of George Thoming of Patterson, passed way.
The deceased was 85 years of age and came to California from Germany via the Isthmus of Panama in 1866. In 1870 he
settled on the ranch in the New Jerusalem district north of Vernalis which has since been him home. Funeral services
were held at Tracy Thursday of last week with interment there.
Thompson Willie E 290426 p1
Passes Suddenly Monday Evening; Stricken very suddenly Monday evening, Willie E. Thompson passed away that night
at the family home on Los Palmas, a blood clot on the brain being the cause. The deceased was a native of Minnesota,
aged 36 years, and is survived by his mother, Mrs. Guneld Thompson; a sister, Mrs. Ben Stroup of Anderson, and two
brothers, Eddie and Julius, both of Patterson. Death has laid a heavy hand on the family, Willie being the fourth boy to
die within about twelve years, the father also passing away a few years ago. Funeral services were held yesterday
afternoon from the Lutheran church with Rev. A. J. Towe officiating. The American Legion, of which the deceased was
a member, took part in the services. Interment was in Del Puerto cemetery, with arrangement in charge of Davis &
Evans.
Unidentified Man 290329 p1
Tramp Killed Under Freight; Some wanderer of the road went to a nameless grave yesterday as the result of an accident
Wednesday night in which an unidentified man fell beneath the wheels of a southbound freight a short distance south of
Patterson. The remains were badly ground up by the cars and with no articles of papers found in his effects as a clue,
identification was impossible. Davis & Evans took charge of the remains for interment.
Van Buskirk Richard 290621 p1
Death of Richard Van Buskirk Yesterday; Richard Van Buskirk passed away at his Colony home at Sycamore and
Walnut yesterday morning. A native of New Jersey, he was 73 years of age and has been a Colony resident since 1913.
The family came here from Plano, Illinois, where the deceased had resided for over 40 years. He is survived by his wife,
Mrs. Cora Van Buskirk; a daughter, Mrs. Palmer Smith of Berkeley; a son, Harry of Patterson; and three grandchildren,
Richard Van Buskirk and Virginia and Geraldine Smith. Funeral services will be held from the chapel of Davis and
Evans tomorrow, Saturday afternoon at 1:30, followed by interment at Modesto.
Welty John S 290712 p1
John Welty, West Side Pioneer Passes; John S. Welty, pioneer of the Vernalis section, passed away at Stockton on the
morning of July 3rd, following an illness of long duration. Coming to Vernalis in 1881, he has spent practically half a
century in dry farming in this district, being closely associated with his brother, Noah E. Welty, in all his operation and
an unusual bond of affection existed between the brothers. It so happened that Noah Welty was in the same hospital at
the time for his heath, recovering from an operation. His passing coincides with the close of the era of dry farming to
which the greater part of his long life was devoted and the coming of irrigation and a new order of things. The deceased
was a native of Ohio, aged 70 years and beside his brother, is survived by two sisters - Mrs. Ben Poling of Roseville,
Ohio, and Mrs. John Bash of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Funeral services were held at Modesto Saturday morning, followed by
interment in the Masonic cemetery there.
Williams Harry 290222 p4
Nephew of Evans Murder Victim; Harry Williams, Laredo, Texas, newspaper reporter whose body was found in the Rio
Grande river Monday, was a nephew of J. H. Evans of Patterson. William went to Texas from Indiana about two months
ago, Evans says, and disappeared about a month after he arrived there, the finding of the body being the next that was
heard of him. All circumstances pointed to foul play and in international investigation is being carried on.
Yiminez Alberto 290628 p2
Two Drown in San Joaquin River Sunday; Alberto Yirminez; The section of the San Joaquin river northwest of Vernalis,
which seems to be a prolific source of fatalities in recent years, added two more drowning to its list Sunday. Oakland
people, who come up there for weekend outings, provide the most victims, and another Oakland man was killed Sunday -
William Proctor, aged 30, who went down at McLeod's Beach. Alberto Yiminez, Mexican section hand employed by the
S. P. at Vernalis was the other victim, going down near the mouth of the Stanislaus river.
Zellers Mary E 290111 p1
Newcomer From Illinois Dies; Mrs. Mary Ellen Zellers passed away yesterday morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. B.
Webb. She was a native of Illinois, aged 72 years, and came here from that state but five months ago. Beside Mrs. Webb,
two brothers, Elijah O. And William Zellers, survive her. Funeral services will be held from the chapel of Davis & Evans
tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Dec-29
There are no obits for December.